Method for making a secondary wager on a primary game of chance

ABSTRACT

Disclosed in this specification is a method for making a secondary wager on a primary game. In one embodiment, the outcome of the secondary wager is determined independently of the outcome of the primary game. The odds of winning the secondary game change from one round to the next. In certain aspects of the invention, a chip is provided to help track the current number of favorable outcomes of the secondary wager.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of priority of co-pending U.S.patent application 60/818,682 (filed Jul. 5, 2006) and 60/818,683 (filedJul. 5, 2006).

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates, in one embodiment, to a method for making aseries of secondary wagers on multiple rounds of a primary game ofchance. The outcome of the secondary wager is determined independent ofthe outcome of the primary game. The odds of winning the secondary wagervary depending on the current number of sequentially favorable outcomessuch that the odds of winning the wager change with each success.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Conventional games of chance are played in gaming establishments acrossthe world. Professional establishments, such as casinos, invest a greatdeal of energy developing new and entertaining ways to play games ofchance that will both entice customers to play the game, and stillafford a modest “house advantage” that makes profit possible.

One method of enhancing a game of chance is to permit a “side bet” orsecondary wager to be made on the primary game. To win the secondarywager one must often win a sequence of games in a row and thus qualifyfor a bonus jackpot. U.S. Pat. No. 5,042,810 to Williams (RouletteApparatus) discloses a roulette wheel that includes such a bonusjackpot. The roulette apparatus of Williams may pay a bonus jackpot tothe winner of the primary game (e.g. roulette) upon the occurrence of aspecified condition (e.g. when a number occurs three times in a row). Asimilar game is taught in U.S. Pat. No. 5,593,161 to Boylan et al.(Wagering Game with a Set of Rounds and Bets) wherein a player makes asecondary wager on a predetermined number of rounds of a primary game.If the player wins all of the rounds, the player is rewarded with abonus jackpot. Another roulette game with a bonus jackpot is disclosedin U.S. Pat. No. 5,743,798 to Adams et al. (Apparatus for Playing aRoulette Game Including a Progressive Jackpot). In each of theaforementioned games, if the player is to win the bonus jackpot, theplayer must also win the primary game. Thus, winning of the jackpot isdependent upon winning the primary game.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,048,833 to Lamie (Apparatus for Detecting a Series ofGame Outcomes) teaches a similar method for accumulating a bonusjackpot. Lamie discloses a slot machine that determines the odds ofsuccessfully completing a number of hypothetical games. During play, ifthe actual outcome falls to match the hypothetical outcome, then thejackpot is increased. If the actual outcome meets the hypotheticaloutcome, then the bonus jackpot is paid out. Much like Williams, theplayer cannot win the bonus jackpot unless the player also wins theprimary game.

U.S. Pat. RE38,982 (Gambling Game System and Methods) and U.S. Pat. No.5,934,998 (Blackjack Game System and Methods), both to Forte et al.,disclose multiple bonus jackpots that are paid out at certainfrequencies—the larger the jackpot, the less frequently the payout ismade. The bonus jackpots are paid out upon the occurrence of a certaincondition, and the player does not make a secondary wager or choose theconditions to be wagered upon. The player is often detached from thewagering process, and as such the game is less enjoyable than a gamewith more player involvement.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,570,885 (Electronic Gaming System and Method forMultiple Play Wagering) and U.S. Pat. No. 5,718,431 (Gaming System andMethod for Multiple Play Wagering), both to Ornstein, teach a method ofplacing a secondary wager on consecutive wins of a primary game. To winthe secondary wager, the player must necessarily win the primary game. Asimilar wagering system is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,679,492 toMarkowiak (Method of Playing a Better Game Using Special Payoff Tables)that uses special “win buttons” to track the number of consecutive wins.Markowiak's invention changes the house edge in each round of play tofavor the player by increasing the payout. It is important to note thatthe chance of winning each individual round remains constant. Such anarrangement attempts to induce the player to continue betting.Unfortunately, this same arrangement also increases the chances that aplayer will strike a large jackpot, and thus reduces the casino'sprofit. Furthermore, like most of the prior art, to win the secondarywager the player must also win the primary game.

One game in which a player can win the secondary wager, but lose theprimary game is “Caribbean Stud.” The player can elect to make asecondary wager on his or her hand. If the player's hand meetspredetermined criteria, then the player wins a bonus jackpot. Forexample, if the player's hand is a flush, then the player may win $50from the jackpot fund. If the player's hand is a straight flush, thenthe player may win 10% of the total in a progressive jackpot fund. It isimportant to note that the outcome of the secondary wager is determinedindependent of the outcome of the primary game. For example, theaforementioned flush may be insufficient to beat the house's hand. Insuch an instance the player would lose the primary game, but still winthe secondary wager. Unfortunately, the player has no control over thewagering criteria—such criteria is predetermined by the house, not theplayer. Therefore, player involvement is limited and the game is lessenjoyable. Moreover, the odds of winning the secondary wager areconstant. For example, the chance of obtaining a flush is the same fromone round of the game to the next. It would be more exciting for theplayer if the odds of winning change with each round of play.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention comprises, in one form thereof, a method for making asecondary wager on a primary game. Such method is comprised of the stepsof (1) affording an opportunity to make a primary wager on each round ofa primary game, (2) affording an opportunity to make a secondary wageron each round of the primary game, (3) affording an opportunity to playa multiplicity of rounds of the primary game, (4) if the secondary wagerwas made, determining the outcome of the secondary wager wherein theodds of winning the secondary wager change with each sequential win ofthe secondary wager. The outcome of the secondary wager is determinedindependently of the outcome of the primary game.

An advantage of the present invention is that the player may be rewardedfor winning the secondary wager even if the primary game is lost, thusthe game is more rewarding.

A further advantage is the additional stimulation provided by offeringthe player the chance to infrequently win a large bonus jackpot, whilealso offering the chance to more frequently win a smaller jackpot.

A still further advantage is the added excitement caused by the changingodds of winning the secondary wager. Such changing odds provide thecasino with the ability to construct a profitable payout table whilemaintaining player interest.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention is disclosed with reference to the accompanyingdrawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a flow diagram of one method of making a secondary wager;

FIG. 2 is a depiction of four chips for use with certain embodiments ofthe present invention;

FIG. 3 is a flow diagram of one method of use for the chips of FIG. 2;and

FIG. 4 is a depiction of a typical roulette table layout.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding partsthroughout the several views. The examples set out herein illustrateseveral embodiments of the invention but should not be construed aslimiting the nature or scope of the invention in any manner.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

FIG. 1 is a flow diagram of one method 100 for use with the presentinvention. Method 100 is initiated in step 102, wherein a player isafforded the opportunity to make a primary wager on a round of a primarygame. Such an opportunity may be afforded by any suitable entity such asan individual, an electronic game machine (such as a computer orhand-held device), a network-based computer game (such as an internetgambling web site), a dealer representing a gaming establishment orcasino, and the like. In this specification such an entity isgenerically referred to as the “house.” If the opportunity is accepted,then the method will continue and step 104 will be executed. If theopportunity is not accepted, then the house continues to afford suchoffers until a player is found.

In step 104 of method 100, a player is afforded an opportunity to make asecondary wager on the primary game of step 102. To accept such anopportunity the player must provide a stake (e.g. a chip, token,currency, or other thing of value) to wager. In one embodiment, theopportunities of steps 102 and 104 are afforded by the same house. Inanother embodiment, the opportunities of step 102 and 104 are affordedby two different houses. For example, a first house may be running theprimary game while a second house, which is watching the primary game,is running the secondary wager. Furthermore, it is important to notethat, in some embodiments, the player who accepts the opportunity ofstep 102 is not the same player who accepts the opportunity of step 104.For example, a first player may be playing the primary game, while asecond player makes secondary wagers on the indicia generated during theplay of the primary game. In another embodiment, it is the same playerwho accepts the opportunities of both steps 102 and 104. If theopportunity to make a secondary wager (step 104) is not accepted, theprimary game can be played (see steps 106 and 110) in accordance withestablished rules.

The criteria of the secondary wager is preferably selected by the playerduring the execution of step 104 in accordance with the terms set forthby the house on such wagers. For example, the house terms may require aplayer to select a single lot of four numbers from a possible thirty-sixnumbers. The player then selects which lot is chosen as the criteria.The player can change the criteria during each round of wagering. Suchan arrangement increases the level of involvement of the player andhelps to promote enjoyment of the game. In one embodiment, the terms soimposed on the player cause the odds of winning the secondary wager tochange depending on the number of times the player has received afavorable outcome on the secondary wager. In one such embodiment, theodds of winning the secondary wager decrease (i.e. the house edgeincreases) with each sequential round of play of the secondary wager.Such an embodiment is discussed in detail elsewhere in thisspecification.

The house can establish the terms of the secondary wager such that thesecondary wager may, or may not, conflict with the primary game. In thefollowing example, the primary game is Blackjack, the player holds ahand of seventeen, and the secondary wager is won by receiving anineteen or greater. The player of the primary game may be influenced torequest a “hit” in an attempt to win the secondary wager despite therisk such a “hit” poses to winning the primary game. This presents theplayer with a conflict—should the player request a “hit” in an attemptto win the secondary wager, despite the risk of losing the primary game?In one embodiment, the terms imposed by the house are constructed insuch a way so as to avoid influencing the strategy for optimal play ofthe primary game. One means for avoiding such a conflict is for thehouse to establish rules of secondary wager wherein the value of thehand is determined prior to requesting any hits. Other means foravoiding such a conflict would be apparent to one skilled in the art. Inanother embodiment, such a conflict is not avoided, as it may add to theenjoyment of the game.

in step 106 of method 100, the primary game is played in accordance withrules established by the house. Any suitable primary game can be used inconjunction with method 100 so long as some indicia is generated whichcan be wagered upon. By way of illustration, and not limitation, one canplay roulette and bet upon the occurrence of one or more numbers,specified tots of numbers, color, or the like. One can play blackjackand bet upon the occurrence of a natural twenty-one by either the houseor the player, upon the occurrence of a certain card holding orcombination by either the house or the player, upon either the house orthe player “going bust” or not “going bust,” upon the occurrence ofeither the house or the player winning, upon the occurrence of eitherthe house or the player having at least a specific point count, and thelike. Many other suitable games will become apparent to one skilled inthe art after benefiting from reading this specification. Such othergames are considered within the scope of this invention.

Referring again to FIG. 1, in step 108 of method 100 it is determinedwhether or not a secondary wager was made in step 104 and appropriateaction is taken. If no secondary wager was made, then the primary gameis played in accordance with established rules (step 110). Thereafter,the player of the primary game can choose to play again (return to step102) or quit the game (step 122). Even if a wager was made in a priorround, the player of the secondary wager need not wager on everysequential round of the primary game. In one such embodiment, the playermakes secondary wagers on certain rounds that are selected at theplayer's discretion. In another embodiment, such wagers are made oncertain rounds in accordance with the terms prescribed by the house(e.g. upon an event occurring, every other round, or every round).Alternatively, if a secondary wager was made in step 104 then step 112is executed wherein the outcome of such secondary wager is determined.

In step 112 of method 100 the outcome of the secondary wager isdetermined. The outcome of the secondary wager is determined bycomparing the criteria of the secondary wager that was selected by theplayer (see step 104) with the indicia generated during play of theprimary game (step 106) and/or is determined in the same manner as theoutcome of the primary game. In accordance with a preferred embodiment,the outcome of the secondary wager (step 112) is determinedindependently of the outcome of the primary game (step 110). In otherwords, the outcome of the primary game does not necessitate the outcomeof the secondary wager. In one embodiment, the outcome of the secondarywager is independently determined such that the outcome of the primarygame is one factor in the outcome of the secondary wager, but is not thesole determinant. Thus it is possible to win the primary game, but losethe secondary wager. In another embodiment, the outcome of the secondarywager is independently determined such that the outcome of the primarygame is irrelevant to the outcome of the secondary wager. Thus, forexample, it is possible for the player of the primary game to lose suchgame while the player of the secondary wager may win the wager despitethe fact that both games are dependent on the same indicia.Additionally, since such outcomes are determined independently, theplayer of the secondary wager need not play the primary game at all.

There are a finite number of possible outcome scenarios of the secondarywager. In a first outcome scenario, there are two possibleoutcomes—favorable and unfavorable. In a second outcome scenario, thereare three possible outcomes—favorable, unfavorable, and tie (or “push”).In both the first and second outcome scenarios, the number of sequentialfavorable outcomes is tracked (i.e. the streaks of the secondary wagerare counted). It is noteworthy that the number of favorable outcomes istracked on a player by player basis. Thus, when there are multipleplayers, each player may have a different current number of favorableoutcomes. In some embodiments, a tie may be treated as a favorableoutcome. In other embodiments, a tie is treated as an unfavorableoutcome. In other embodiments, a tie is treated as a null round withregard to the secondary wager. Such a null round is neither favorablenor unfavorable. In such an embodiment, the number of favorable outcomesis not incremented nor is it reinitialized. For certain primary games,specific events may be designated as a tie round. For example, in oneembodiment, when the primary game is Blackjack and the player splitpairs in the primary game, such a round is treated as a null round inthe secondary wager. In another example, a tie in the primary game istreated as a null round in the secondary wager, but initiates a newround of primary game play that replaces the previous round (i.e. a“do-over”).

Referring to step 114, if the outcome of the secondary wager isunfavorable to the player, then step 114 is executed. In step 114 thehouse confiscates the stake made by such player and sets the number offavorable outcomes to an initial value. For example, the number offavorable outcomes may be set to zero. After the secondary wager hasbeen resolved in a manner unfavorable to the player, the primary gamecan still be played normally (step 110). In one embodiment, a payout ismade prior to resetting the number of favorable outcomes.

Should the outcome of the secondary wager be resolved in favor of theplayer, then step 116 is executed. Step 116 increments the number offavorable outcomes, preferably by an integer. For example if, prior tostep 110, the current number of favorable outcomes was zero, then suchnumber is incremented to one. If, prior to step 110, the current numberof favorable outcomes was two, then such number is incremented to three.Once the number of favorable outcomes has been incremented, adetermination is made as to whether a payout is proper. Such adetermination is made in step 118.

In step 118′ a determination is made as to whether a payout is proper.Depending on the specific embodiment being played and the terms setforth by the house, a number of factors influence such a determination.In one embodiment, there is a maximum number of favorable outcomes, suchthat a player is required to take a payout when the maximum number isreached. In one such embodiment, the player is not permitted to take apayout until such a maximum number is reached. In another suchembodiment, the player is permitted to receive a payout during step 118at the player's discretion. As shown in FIG. 1, if such a payout istaken, the number of favorable outcomes is set to the initial value(i.e. the number is reinitialized) (see step 114). If a payout is nottaken, then primary game play continues (step 110). Thereafter anotheropportunity to make a secondary wager is afforded wherein the updatedvalue of the number of favorable outcomes is carried forward. In anotherembodiment, the player receives a payout and the counter is incremented,rather than reinitialized.

When a payout is taken in accordance with step 118, such a payout ispreferably made in accordance with a predetermined payout table. Apayout table correlates the number of favorable outcomes and the termsof the house to the payout amount. The details of such payout tables arediscussed elsewhere in this specification. In one embodiment, the payouttable and the house terms are constructed such that the payout may bemade only if all rounds of the wager are won. Alternatively, a lesseramount may be paid out for winning fewer than all of the rounds of thewager. The amounts won may be a fixed ratio, such as paying ten dollarsfor every one dollar wagered for winning round two. In anotherembodiment, a payout is a percentage of a jackpot (10% of the jackpotfor completing three rounds, 50% of the jackpot for completing fourrounds, etc.). Such a jackpot may be a fixed jackpot, a progressivejackpot, a random or quasi-random jackpot, a mystery jackpot, etc. Theprogressive jackpot may be correlated with the sum of the previoussecondary wagers that were lost by prior players. Alternatively, suchlosses may be paid into a hidden jackpot that is used to re-seed adisplayed progressive jackpot. Many other payout schemes are known tothose skilled in the art and are contemplated for use with the presentinvention.

Chip Indicating the Number of Favorable Outcomes

Referring now to FIG. 2, in one embodiment of the invention, a chip ormarker which indicates the number of favorable outcomes is provided tohelp track how many rounds of the secondary wager have been favorablycompleted. In one embodiment, the chip is a digital object such as anidentifier displayed on an electronic screen. In another embodiment, thechip is a physical object, such as a ceramic chip, similar to thecircular chips commonly found in casinos. Such a chip bears distinctivemarkings, colors, or has a distinctive size that indicates the currentnumber of favorable outcomes. Examples of such chips are shown in FIG.2.

FIG. 2 is a depiction of four chips for use with certain embodiments ofthe present invention. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 2, the chipsare physical objects. FIG. 2 illustrates chips 200, 202, 204 and 206which correspond to the chips for four individual rounds of a four roundsecondary wager. Referring to chip 200 it can be seen that chip 200bears an indicator of the number of favorable outcomes that have beencompleted. On chip 200, such an indication is made by round indicator208 which is the phrase “round one.” If the player wins the secondarywager and thereby maintains control of the chip, then the “round one”chip indicates that one favorable outcome has been received.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, the terms imposed by the houseon a “round one” wager cause the player to select a single lot of fournumbers (a “corner” bet) by placing the chip on the intersection of fouradjoining numbers on a roulette table layout (see FIG. 4). It theembodiment depicted in FIG. 2, the terms imposed by the house (i.e. therequirement to select a lot of four numbers) are indicated by wagerindicator 210 which is the phrase “four numbers.” The chips may alsobear markings, colors or other indicia to indicate association with aparticular player position or player. Additionally, the chips mayoptionally bear the name of the game being played. In the embodimentdepicted, the name indicator 212 notifies the player that the chip 200is used in conjunction with a game named “4321Jackpot.” Naturally, otherindicia, such as a casino name, can be selected or name indicator 212may be omitted entirely.

Method of Using Chip

In one embodiment the chips previously described are used to help trackthe current round by exchanging the current chip for an incrementedchip. Such a method is illustrated in FIG. 3.

FIG. 3 is a flow diagram of method 300 wherein the current chip isexchanged for an incremented chip upon a favorable outcome of thesecondary wager. Method 300 is initiated by step 302.

In step 302, the player of the secondary wager purchases a “round one”chip from the house. For example, the player may purchase chip 200 whichbears round indicator 208 indicating it is a “round one” chip. Thepurchaser of the chip agrees to abide by the terms of the secondarywager set forth by the house. For example, such terms may include alimit of four rounds of wagering.

In step 304 the current chip is used as the stake in a secondary wager.In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 3 the secondary wager has twopossible outcomes—favorable and unfavorable. In the event the outcome isfavorable, step 310 is executed. If the outcome is unfavorable, step 306is executed. In another embodiment, not shown, the outcome is a tie andthe house terms of the particular embodiment determine the appropriateaction.

In step 306, which is executed if the wager has been resolved in amanner unfavorable to the player, the house confiscates the currentchip. The term “confiscates” need not refer to a physical act. Forexample, a computer game of roulette may “confiscate” a digital chip. Inone embodiment, the secondary wager ends upon such an unfavorableresolution and no payout is made. In another embodiment, a payout ismade after the current chip is confiscated (i.e. step 308 is executed).Such a payout is made in accordance with a payout table that correlatesthe current number of favorable outcomes to a payout value.

In step 310, which is executed upon receiving a favorable outcome, adecision is made either to exchange the current chip for an incrementedchip or to end the wager and receive a payout. Such a decision is madein accordance with the terms set forth by the house which may limit theoptions available to the player. An incremented chip is a chip thatbears a round indicator that has been incremented to be one roundgreater than the current round. For example, a “round one” chip would beexchanged for a “round two” chip. Similarly, a “round two” chip would beexchanged for a “round three” chip. In another embodiment, the payoutfor the current round is made upon favorable resolution of the secondarywager—the chip need not be exchanged for such a payout.

In step 310 the player may decide to terminate wager play and receive apayout (step 308). The house may impose certain terms on such atermination of play. In one embodiment, the house requires the player toplay a minimum number of rounds before the player can decide to take apayout. In another embodiment, the player can decide to take a payout inexchange for the current chip during step 310, wherein the payout isdetermined in accordance with a payout table. In yet another embodiment,the player receives a payout and exchanges the current chip for anincremented chip.

Referring again to step 310, which is executed upon a favorable outcome,the player may decide to not terminate play and alternatively exchangethe current chip for an incremented chip. The incremented chip is thenused as the stake as the secondary wager (step 304) is repeated.

EXAMPLE 1

To help clarify the invention an example of method 300 is givenhereafter. Such an example is merely illustrative, and is not intendedto limit the scope of the invention in any way. The present example usesroulette as the primary game upon which the secondary wager is made.Other games may be equally suitable.

in step 302 of method 300 a player purchases a “round one” chip 200 (seeFIG. 2) for one dollar. In accordance with the terms of the house, theplayer selects one lot of four numbers (see wage indicator 210) as thecriteria. In a version using a physical roulette table, such a selectionmay be accomplished by the player placing a chip at the interstices offour adjacent numbers on the roulette table. When the primary game isplayed, the roulette wheel produces a number (the indicia). Based uponthe comparison of the number to the criteria selected by the player, theresult of the secondary wager is determined. In the present example, theroulette wheel produces one of the four numbers selected and the resultis favorable to the player. Thus the player maintains control of the“round one” chip and step 310 is executed.

In step 310 the player decides whether to surrender the current chip fora payout (step 308) or to exchange the chip for a “round two” chip (chip202 of FIG. 2). In the present example, the player elects to exchangethe “round one” chip for a “round two” chip. Accordingly, the houseperforms the exchange. The player then repeats step 304 using the “roundtwo” chip as the current stake.

In the second round of step 304, the secondary wager is once againresolved. Should the outcome prove unfavorable, the “round two” chipwill be confiscated by the house. In one embodiment, there is no payoutfor such an unfavorable outcome despite the favorable outcome of roundone. In another embodiment, the player receives a payout for havingreceived one favorable outcome and surrenders the chip. In the presentexample, the outcome of the second round of step 304 was favorable. Theplayer then repeats step 310 and decides whether to surrender the “roundtwo” chip for a payout (which will correspond to two favorable outcomes)or to exchange the “round two” chip for a “round three” chip. In theinstant scenario, the player exchanges the current chip for a “roundthree” chip and repeats step 304 again.

In the third round of step 304, the secondary wager is resolved onceagain. Should the outcome prove unfavorable, the “round three” chip willbe confiscated as described elsewhere in this specification. Should theoutcome prove favorable, the player may either surrender the chip andreceive a payout (corresponding to three favorable outcomes) or exchangethe chip for a “round four” chip. In the instant scenario, the playerexchanges the current chip for a “round four” chip and repeats step 304.

In the fourth round of step 304, the secondary wager is resolved again.In accordance with the terms set forth by the house there are a maximumof four rounds in the present embodiment. Therefore, even if the wageris resolved in a favorable manner, the chip cannot be exchanged for anincremented chip and the player must surrender the chip and take apayout. Notwithstanding this exception, the fourth round is played outin a manner analogous to the previous rounds.

EXAMPLE 2

The invention has been described in general terms in accordance with themethod 100 of FIG. 1. To further clarify the invention, another exampleof the invention is described wherein thirty-eight slot (American)roulette is the primary game. As would be apparent to one skilled in theart, other styles of roulette are also known and may be used inconjunction with the present invention. The following example isillustrative only, and is not intended to limit the invention to asingle embodiment. Such an example uses the following house terms: Thereare a maximum of four rounds of the secondary wager. Once the initialsecondary wager is made then the wagering player must bet on eachsubsequent round of roulette. During the first round one lot of fournumbers must be selected as the wager criteria (a “corner” bet). On thesecond round the players must select one lot of three numbers (a“street” bet). On the third round, one lot of two numbers is selected (a“split” bet). On the fourth and final round, a single number is selected(a “straight-up” bet). After the secondary wager is resolved, the playermay optionally choose to surrender the current round's chip for a payoutin lieu of advancement to the next round. In other embodiments,alternative betting terms are permitted, such as “even money” bets,“column” bets, and “six-line” bets.

Referring to FIG. 1, a method 100 is provided for making a secondarywager on a primary game which, in the present example, is roulette. Instep 102, a player is afforded the opportunity to make a primary wageron a round of roulette in accordance with established rules of roulette.For example, the player may choose to wager on the occurrence of asingle number, a lot of eighteen numbers (one of two possible colors, oreven or odd numbers), a lot of four, three, or two numbers, and thelike. See FIG. 4.

In step 104 of method 100, an opportunity is afforded to make asecondary wager on the game of roulette. Should a player make such asecondary wager, the player provides something of value (e.g. cash,chips valued as cash equivalents, credits in an electronic machine,etc.) in exchange for a chip that indicates the current number offavorable outcomes received so far. For example, the player of theroulette game may pay one dollar in currency and receive chip 200 (seeFIG. 2) which bears round indicator 208

In step 108 of method 100, it is determined whether or not a secondarywager was made. In the event a secondary wager was not made, the primaryroulette game continues in accordance with established play (see steps110 and 122). In the event a secondary wager was made, the outcome ofthe secondary wager is determined (step 112) by comparing the criteriaselected by the player (i.e. which lot of four numbers was selected)with the number generated by the primary game of roulette. If theroulette wheel indicates that none of the four numbers were selected,the outcome of the secondary wager is unfavorable. If one of the fournumbers was selected, the outcome of the secondary wager is favorable.It is important to note that the outcome of the secondary game isdetermined independent of the outcome of the primary game. For example,the primary wager may be the number 14. The secondary wager may be thenumber 12. If the wheel generates the number 12 during play of theprimary game, then the primary game is lost but the secondary wager iswon.

In the event that the secondary wager is unfavorable, step 114 isexecuted. In step 114 the chip is confiscated and the current number offavorable outcomes for that player is reinitialized. In one embodiment,not shown, a payout is made in accordance with a payout table even uponan unfavorable outcome.

For example, in one embodiment, upon an unfavorable outcome, the chip isconfiscated and no payout is made. The current number of favorableoutcomes for that player is reinitialized.

By way of further illustration, in another embodiment, upon anunfavorable outcome the chip is confiscated and a payout is made. Such apayout is made in accordance with the current number of favorableoutcomes, Since the instant round ended unfavorably, the current numberof favorable outcomes is unchanged relative to the previous round. Aftersuch a payout is made the current number of favorable outcomes isthereafter reinitialized.

In the event the secondary wager is favorable, step 116 is executed. Instep 116, the number of favorable outcomes is incremented. In thepresent embodiment, the current chip may be exchanged for an incrementedchip to help track the number of favorable outcomes (see FIG. 3). Forexample, current chip 200 (the current stake) may be exchanged forincremented chip 202 (the new stake). In those embodiments where afavorable outcome is received, but the player opts to not continuewagering, a payout is taken in step 118 in accordance with the currentnumber of favorable outcomes and the current chip 200 is surrendered.

In step 118, which is executed after receiving a favorable outcome onthe secondary wager, it is determined if a payout is proper. In oneembodiment, the players are afforded the opportunity to surrender thecurrent chip and receive a payout. Should the players avail themselvesof such an opportunity, the chip is surrendered, a payout is made inaccordance with a predetermined payout table, and the current number offavorable outcomes is reinitialized (step 114). Should the players notsurrender the chip, the chip is used in a fresh round of secondary wagemaking (i.e. the incremented chip becomes the current chip as step 104is repeated). In another embodiment, the player is not afforded theopportunity to surrender the chip for a payout and wagering of theincremented chip in a subsequent round is required.

Each of the subsequent rounds and the initial round differ from oneanother in that the terms of the secondary wager change with each roundsuch that the odds of winning the wager also change. In one embodiment,the terms of the secondary wager change such that the odds of winningthe secondary wager decrease. For example, if, during the first roundthe player must select four numbers on a thirty-eight slot roulettewheel, then the odds of winning is four in thirty-eight (about 11%).During the second round, in accordance with the house terms, the playermust select three numbers on a thirty-eight slot wheel. Thus the odds ofwinning the second round is three in thirty-eight (about 8%). During thethird round, the player must select two numbers, thereby allowing a twoin thirty-eight chance of winning (about 5%). Daring the fourth round,the player must select one number, thus the chance of winning is one inthirty-eight (3%). Thus, it is clear that on each successive round theodds of winning the instant round change. In the embodiment described,the odds steadily decrease. In other embodiments, the odds couldsteadily increase, or the odds could vacillate as rounds are played. Thepayout table is constructed such that the reward is inversely related toodds of winning the current round.

A sample payout table is illustrated in Table 1. The payout is for each$1 wagered.

TABLE 1 Odds of a Favorable Number of Favorable Outcome in the InstantOutcomes Round Payout 0 — 0 1 4:38 0 2 3:38 0 3 2:38 $500 4 1:38 $50,000

An alternative sample payout table for use with the present invention isshown in Table 2. The payout is for each $1 wagered. Methods forcalculating the house edge for a given payout table are well known. Inthe example portrayed in table 2, the house edge is about 13%. In otherwords, the house expects to pay out about eighty-seven cents for eachdollar wagered.

TABLE 2 Odds of a Favorable Number of Favorable Outcome in the InstantOutcomes Round Payout 0 — 0 1 4:38 $1 2 3:38 $10 3 2:38 $250 4 1:38$50,000

In the embodiment depicted in Table 2, there is a relatively highprobability of winning the first round of secondary betting (about 11%).Advantageously, this encourages players to make secondary wagers as theyfeel they are being rewarded often. As a further advantage, the payoutamounts are relatively small so it is likely the casino can run such asecondary wager system profitably. In those embodiments where playersare permitted to receive a payout and exit the game before all of therounds have been played, the players are faced with the decision—shouldthey accept their current reward or risk such reward in the hope ofgaining more? Many players find such a decision exciting and will playthe game specifically to receive such a sensation.

In the previous example, the house terms included a 4-3-2-1 bettingpattern. Other house terms are also contemplated. For example, a5-4-3-2-1 pattern may be used. In another embodiment, the terms includea 1-2-3-4 pattern. In yet another embodiment, the pattern is a 3-2-1pattern. One payout table for use with such a 3-2-1 pattern isillustrated in Table 3.

TABLE 3 Odds of a Favorable Number of Favorable Outcome in the InstantOutcomes Round Payout 0 — 0 1 3:38 $1 2 2:38 $110 3 1:38 $2,000

Many, but not all, of the examples discussed thus far use roulette asthe primary game of chance. As previously discussed, other primary gamesmay also be played. By way of illustration, and not limitation, one mayplay a game of Blackjack. One such game of Blackjack is discussed below.

In one embodiment, the primary game is Blackjack and secondary wagersare placed on the occurrence of receiving a hand with at least a certainvalue in the present embodiment, there are three rounds of secondarywagering. To win the first round of the secondary wager, the hand musthave a value of seventeen or greater. To win the second round of thesecondary wager, the hand must have a value of eighteen or greater. Towin the third round, the hand must have a value of nineteen or greater.In one embodiment, the value of the hand is determined after the dealingof hand is completed but before any additional draws are taken (i.e. a“natural” hand). In another embodiment, the value of the hand isdetermined after all additional draws have been taken and the player haselected to “stand.”

While the invention has been described with reference to preferredembodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art thatvarious changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted forelements thereof to adapt to particular situations without departingfrom the scope of the invention. Therefore, it is intended that theinvention not be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed as thebest mode contemplated for carrying out this invention, but that theinvention will include all embodiments falling within the scope andspirit of the appended claims.

1. A method of playing a wagering game comprising the steps of: (a)establishing rules of play for a primary game that may be played in aseries of rounds, (b) affording a player an opportunity to make aprimary wager on each round of the primary game in accordance with theestablished rules of the primary game, (c) establishing rules of playfor a secondary wager to be played substantially concurrently with theprimary game wherein the odds of receiving a favorable outcome of thesecondary wager depend upon the current number of favorable outcomes ofthe secondary wager and the outcome of the secondary wager is determinedindependently of the outcome of the primary game, wherein (i) if theoutcome of the secondary wager is unfavorable, then the current numberof favorable outcomes is set to an initial value, (ii) if the outcome ofthe secondary wager is favorable, then the current number of favorableoutcomes is incremented, (d) affording a player an opportunity to make asecondary wager on a series of rounds of play of the primary game, (e)playing a series of rounds of the primary game in accordance with theestablished rules, (f) determining if a secondary wager was made,wherein if the secondary wager was made, determining the outcome of thesecondary wager.
 2. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein if theoutcome of the secondary wager is favorable, then the player of thesecondary wager is afforded the opportunity to make another secondarywager on the next round of the primary game.
 3. The method as recited inclaim 1, wherein if the outcome of the secondary wager is unfavorable,the player of the secondary wager is afforded the opportunity to berewarded with a payout in accordance with the current number offavorable outcomes, and thereafter the current number of favorableoutcomes is set to the initial value.
 4. The method as recited in claim1, wherein if the outcome of the secondary wager is favorable, theplayer of the secondary wager is afforded the opportunity to be rewardedwith a payout in accordance with the current number of favorableoutcomes, and the current number of favorable outcomes is incremented.5. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein the player recited in step(b) and the player recited in step (d) are the same player.
 6. Themethod as recited in claim 1, wherein the player recited in step (b) andthe player recited in step (d) are different players.
 7. The method asrecited in claim 1, wherein during the opportunity to make a secondarywager, the player of the secondary wager selects criteria of thesecondary wager in accordance with the established rules of thesecondary wager.
 8. A method of playing a wagering game comprising thesteps of: (a) establishing rules of play for a primary game that may beplayed in a series of rounds, (b) affording a player an opportunity tomake a primary wager on each round of the primary game in accordancewith the established rules of the primary game, (c) establishing rulesof play for a secondary wager to be played substantially concurrentlywith the primary game wherein a chip is wagered, and the odds ofreceiving a favorable outcome of the secondary wager depend upon thecurrent number of favorable outcomes of the secondary wager and theoutcome of the secondary wager is determined independently of theoutcome of the primary game, wherein (i) if the outcome of the secondarywager is unfavorable, then the current number of favorable outcomes isset to an initial value and the chip is confiscated, (ii) if the outcomeof the secondary wager is favorable, then the current number offavorable outcomes is incremented and the chip is either: (1) exchangedfor an incremented chip which is used in a subsequent round of secondarywagering, or (2) surrendered for a payout which is dependent upon thecurrent number of favorable outcomes and reinitializing the number offavorable outcomes, (d) affording a player an opportunity to make asecondary wager on a series of rounds of play of the primary game, (e)playing a series of rounds of the primary game in accordance with theestablished rules, (f) determining if a secondary wager was made,wherein if the secondary wager was made, determining the outcome of thesecondary wager.
 9. The method as recited in claim 8, wherein if thechip is exchanged for an incremented chip which is used in a subsequentround of secondary wagering, then a payout is made which is dependentupon the current number of favorable outcomes.
 10. The method as recitedin claim 8, wherein if the outcome of the secondary wager is unfavorablea payout is made which is dependent upon the current number of favorableoutcomes prior to setting of the current number of favorable outcomes tothe initial value.
 11. The method as recited in claim 10, wherein duringthe opportunity to make a secondary wager, the player of the secondarywager selects criteria of the secondary wager in accordance with theestablished rules of the secondary wager.
 12. A method of playing aroulette game comprising the steps of: (a) establishing rules of playfor a roulette game that may be played in a series of rounds, (b)affording a player an opportunity to make a primary wager on each roundof the roulette game in accordance with the established rules of theroulette game, (c) establishing rules of play for a secondary wager tobe played substantially concurrently with the roulette game wherein achip is wagered, and the odds of receiving a favorable outcome of thesecondary wager depend upon the current number of favorable outcomes ofthe secondary wager and the outcome of the secondary wager is determinedindependently of the outcome of the roulette game, wherein (i) if theoutcome of the secondary wager is unfavorable, then the current numberof favorable outcomes is set to an initial value and the chip isconfiscated, (ii) if the outcome of the secondary wager is favorable,then the current number of favorable outcomes is incremented and thechip is either: (1) exchanged for an incremented chip which is used in asubsequent round of secondary wagering, or (2) surrendered for a payoutwhich is dependent upon the current number of favorable outcomes andreinitializing the number of favorable outcomes, (d) affording a playeran opportunity to make a secondary wager on a series of rounds of playof the roulette game, the player of the secondary wager selectingcriteria of the secondary wager in accordance with the established rulesof the secondary wager, (e) playing a series of rounds of the roulettegame in accordance with the established rules, (f) determining if asecondary wager was made, wherein if the secondary wager was made,determining the outcome of the secondary wager.
 13. The method asrecited in claim 12, wherein the player of the roulette game and theplayer of the secondary wager are different players.
 14. The method asrecited in claim 12, wherein the player of the roulette game and theplayer of the secondary wager are the same player.
 15. The method asrecited in claim 12, wherein there is a maximum number of rounds ofsecondary wagering imposed by the rules of the secondary wager.
 16. Themethod as recited in claim 12, wherein the odds of winning the secondarywager change such that the odds decrease with each successive round ofsecondary wagering.
 17. The method as recited in claim 12, wherein theodds of winning the secondary wager change such that the odds fluctuateon each successive round of secondary wagering.
 18. The method asrecited in claim 12, wherein the odds of winning the secondary wagerchange such that the odds increase with each successive round ofsecondary wagering.
 19. The method as recited in claim 16, wherein thereis a maximum of four rounds of secondary wagering, and in the first suchround the rules of the secondary wager require a corner bet.
 20. Themethod as recited in claim 16, wherein there is a maximum of N rounds ofsecondary wagering, and in the first such round the rules of thesecondary wager require N numbers be selected, wherein N is an integerbetween one and five.
 21. The method as recited in claim 12, whereinthere is a maximum of four rounds of secondary wagering, and in thefirst such round the rules of the secondary wager require a corner bet.22. The method as recited in claim 12, wherein if the outcome of thesecondary wager is unfavorable, further comprising the step of providingthe player of the secondary wager a payout which is dependent upon thecurrent number of favorable outcomes, and thereafter the current numberof favorable outcomes to set to the initial value.
 23. The method asrecited in claim 12, wherein the outcome of the secondary wager isdetermined independently of the outcome of the roulette game such thatthe outcome of the roulette game does not influence the outcome of thesecondary wager.
 24. The method as recited in claim 12, wherein theoutcome of the secondary wager is determined independently of theoutcome of the roulette game such that the outcome of the roulette gameinfluences, but does not necessitate, the outcome of the secondarywager.
 25. The method as recited in claim 12, wherein when the chip isexchanged for an incremented chip the player of the secondary wagerreceives a payout which is dependent upon the current number offavorable outcomes.